Case Study / Success Story

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Title: From Brown Water to a Clear Future: How One County Transformed Its Water System in 8 Months. Case study ghostwritten for an environmental nonprofit director

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Background

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In Cedar Hollow County, the tap water had been unsafe for years. Tests showed lead contamination at more than twice the EPA limit. Families relied on bottled water for drinking and cooking, while state officials delayed infrastructure repairs, citing “budget constraints.”

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The Challenge

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• 6,200 residents affected across 14 towns.

• Aging infrastructure with corroded pipes dating back to the 1950s.

• No emergency plan from state leadership.​

 

The Solution

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Project Blue partnered with local engineers, a regional labor union, and two philanthropic foundations to design and execute an accelerated replacement plan.

• Deployed solar-powered mobile filtration units within 14 days.

• Launched weekly water delivery program for 1,800 households.

• Secured $4.5 million in combined funding through private grants and municipal bonds.

 

The Results (within 8 months)

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• 22 miles of outdated pipe replaced.

• 100% compliance with federal and state water safety standards.

• Elimination of lead contamination in household water tests.

• Projected savings of $1.2 million/year in long-term healthcare costs for the community.

 

Community Impact

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Local schools now operate drinking fountains for the first time in over a decade. Businesses report increased confidence from new investors. Most importantly, parents no longer have to question whether the water in their homes is safe for their children.

 

Quote from Elena Marquez:

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“This isn’t just about clean water. It’s about dignity, opportunity, and health. Cedar Hollow proved that when communities lead, change can happen faster than anyone expects.”